Novak Djokovic, defying age and early setbacks, delivered a vintage performance to defeat Carlos Alcaraz in a captivating four-set quarterfinal clash at the Australian Open, Al Jazeera reports.
The 10-time champion battled back from a set down, ultimately triumphing 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4, securing his place in a record-extending 50th Grand Slam semi-final.
The match was billed as a clash between generations, pitting the 37-year-old Djokovic against the 20-year-old Alcaraz. Despite entering the match with a heavily strapped left thigh, Djokovic showed no signs of slowing down after dropping the opening set. After a medical timeout following the first set, Djokovic returned with renewed intensity, breaking early in the second set to establish a 3-0 lead. Alcaraz briefly rallied to level the score, but Djokovic wrested back control, showcasing his resilience with a crucial break to love, secured with a stunning backhand winner, to clinch the second set.
The intensity continued in the third set, culminating in three consecutive breaks that saw Djokovic surge to a 5-3 lead, and confidently serve out the set, igniting celebrations amongst the crowd. He then continued his momentum with an early break in the fourth set. Despite the Spaniard’s spirited fightback, the experience and mental fortitude of the world number one ultimately proved too much.
The thrilling three-hour-and-37-minute match featured some incredible rallies, including a 33-shot epic, highlighting the skill and determination of both players. The victory propels Djokovic closer to a record 25th Grand Slam title.
Djokovic’s semi-final opponent will be second-seeded Alexander Zverev, who secured his spot with a hard-fought 7-6 (7/1), 7-6 (7/0), 2-6, 6-1 victory over American 12th seed Tommy Paul. Zverev is into the semi-finals for the second year running.
The win against Alcaraz marks Djokovic’s 50th Grand Slam semi-final appearance, further cementing his place as one of the greatest tennis players of all time.
